Again In 2006, NEF Recognizes the Importance of Ramadan Traditions, Collaborating With Local NGOs & Committees
Source: Near East Foundation (NEF) - USA
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In some of the poorest areas of Khartoum's Dar Al Salam--where NEF is concentrating its many programs--widows and orphans, the elderly and the disabled, as well as low income families were able to fully participate in their traditions.
NEF has been working in the Arab world since 1915 and honors its traditions. That includes the Holy Month of Ramadan, a time for inner reflection by Muslims, devotion to God, self control, fasting, community, and above all, a time of giving and feeling for the poor. Zakat or alms-giving is considered a personal responsibility to ease the economic hardships of others. During Ramadan for several years now, NEF has provided food packages to the very poor and most needy in the communities NEF serves.
Again in partnership with long-time collaborator Human Concern International, hundreds of Sudanese families received nutritional packages this Ramadan, with contributions also coming from NEF's online fundraising activities. In some of the poorest areas of Khartoum's Dar Al Salam--where NEF is concentrating its many programs--widows and orphans, the elderly and the disabled, as well as low income families were able to fully participate in their traditions.
The most difficult to reach, NEF stretched out its hand through six local non-governmental organizations and committees, working in four different areas. In the Tawidat area in Haj Yousif, north of the capital Khartoum, where NEF operates a health center and micro-credit fund, distribution took place at the NEF clinic, three schools and a mosque. Benefiting were 150 families with an average of six persons per family.
Other distribution points and assisting community organizations were: in Salama area, El Nahda Society for Physically Disabled, Increasing Development Society Family Project Association, and the Disabled People Charitable Society; Mayo area south of the capital Khartoum, El Rahma Charitable Society; and in the Omdurman area, Iyyadi El Nour Charitable Society.
An NEF staffer supervised the distribution in each area. "As we repeatedly heard from participating local NGOs," commented one, "this year's distribution was well organized and more focused and transparent. And this year's package better in both quantity and quality." He added, "People also said the NEF Ramadan program increased closeness among the families in their communities."
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